The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service advises animal owners to be aware of the daily temperature and its effect on their animals, especially when transporting them.

“During times of extreme weather, animals can suffer,” said Michael V. Dunn, under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs. APHIS is a part of USDA’s marketing and regulatory programs mission area. “Due to the very high temperatures this summer, we recommend taking precautions to protect your animals. If you are feeling the heat, they are too.”

When feasible, avoid traveling altogether during periods of temperature extremes. When travel is necessary, APHIS recommends traveling during the coolest times of the day–early morning and late evening.

Shade and airy shelters should be provided for animals kept outdoors